By CAITLIN MURRAY
The U.S. Men’s National Team is just two days from their second group stage match and the big question from Sao Paulo, Brazil has been, who will replace injured target forward Jozy Altidore? SBI’s Franco Panizo heard from forwards Chris Wondolowski and Aron Johannasson about the prospect of filling that role against Portugal on Sunday. Meanwhile, Michael Bradley was looking to improve after what he admitted was a poor showing in the USMNT’s opener against Ghana.
For the second time in their team history, Costa Rica is heading to the World Cup knockout round. The CONCACAF nation stunned Italy to ensure Costa Rica will advance and eliminate England after just two matches played.
Elsewhere, it looked like CONCACAF would be able to boast another team rising to the occasion — but Ecuador intervened and overcame a deficit to win and put Honduras on the brink of elimination.
Here is a rundown of all the stories featured on SBI today:
U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM:
Wondolowski, Johannsson ready to fill in for injured Altidore
Bradley poised for bounce-back performance against Portugal
WORLD CUP:
Ruiz header gives Costa Rica stunning victory over Italy
World Cup Man of the Match: Christian Bolaños
Valencia brace rallies Ecuador past Honduras
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Enner Valencia
France takes control of Group E with dominant performance against Switzerland
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Karim Benzema
World Cup Day 9: Your Running Commentary
Friday Kickoff: Xavi to leave Barcelona; Suarez calls win “a dream”; and more
MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER:
U.S. Open Cup Fourth Round Recap: MLS bounces back from early upsets
NATIONAL WOMEN’S SOCCER LEAGUE:
NWSL Week 11: A Look Ahead